Good morning, everybody! 

Being still new to Lagos and to Nigeria, I was delighted to learn about the ongoing collaboration of the German Consulate with Creative Youth Community Development Initiative, CYCDI,  on the ‘Naija Climate now by the Green Entrepreneurs’ Project. Innovative initiatives of this kind are more relevant than ever now, we are happy to support it with our modest means. The German government recognizes climate change as one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century, and has committed to significant emission reduction goals in order to reach a carbon neutral economy.  The fight against climate change is also a key element of German foreign policy. In this context, our missions partner with governmental institutions and particularly with civil society to promote climate resilience, mitigation and adaptation.

Good morning and thank you, it is a pleasure to be here with you all today and hello to those connecting to this event virtually. I am grateful to the United Nations Information Centre, for co-hosting with the British Deputy High Commission this press conference to announce the finalists for the Naija Climate Now project. And I wish to specially commend the Creative Youth Community Development Initiative for the ingenuity and hardwork behind this activity that we are here for – kudos to you Foluke and team.

The Climate Trust™ has partnered with Solution17 for Climate Action to host a Climate Change Exhibition to support COP26 and the realisation of the UN’s 2030 agenda.  This virtual exhibition will open on October 18, 2021 for 26 days to promote the COP26 Summit Globally, in line with Solution17 Art for Climate Change official recognition by the United Nations Deputy Secretary General (DSG) Amina Mohammed (VIDEO) in 2020.   This powerful tool will promote climate change solutions to move the world beyond fossil fuels into an era of solar power and green agenda.

The intersection between arts, culture and the environment in Nigeria is undeniable, from our agricultural systems to the industries that dominate our societies. It is therefore important to explore climate change through art as a means of bringing about behavioural change and fully addressing the climate emergency.